Anumber of Millicent cafes will be serving up a gentle reminder that it is okay to ask for help and to ask if someone is okay.
Café operators are supporting the Wattle Range Suicide Prevention Network (WRSPN) initiative aimed at starting conversations that could save a life.
The community is invited for a cuppa and chat to help with prompting “R U OK?” conversations.
Coffee shops taking part include Acky’s Café and Takeaway, Java, McCourts Garden Café, Café Lito and Shearers Cook Café.
Network committee member Dawn Williams will be joined by Skylight representative Sam Clift as they pop into each of the participating cafes.
They can be found at Acky’s from 9am, followed by Java at 10am, McCourts at 11am, then Café Lito at 12pm, before ending their coffee and chat journey at Shearer’s Cook at 1pm.
“We welcome having a chat and answering any questions about the organisation and other support services,” Ms Williams said.
She said the key to having an “R U OK?” conversation not only involved asking open ended questions but also being an active listener.
Ms Williams encourages talking to reduce the stigma around mental health.
Those wanting some guidance on how to start the conversation can also pick up a conversation prompter card available at the cafes.
Network secretary Marg Chapple said the initiative encourages people to stay connected and have conversations that can help others through difficult times in their lives.
“A conversation could change a life. Learn how to ask, and what to say if someone says they are not okay,” she said.
“If they identify signs of distress or difficulty, they can connect someone to appropriate support, long before they’re in crisis.
“This small action from local cafes encourages those needing help to seek assistance and reduces the stigma of suicide for our community.”
Brochures with information about the Network and support services as well as R U OK? Day merchandise will also be available at each of the cafes.